Kamika Ekadashi is celebrated during the waning phase of the moon of Shravan month (July-August), according to Hindu calendar. Lord VishnuVishnuVishnu is one of the Supreme Gods of Hindus and is a part of Hindu Trinity,.. is worshipped on this day to gain his blessings and have a happy, prosperous life. It is believed that fasting on this day is equivalent to sacrificing a horse and offering it to the God. By observing the fast, people can get rid of their sins and gain apology for their mistakes.

One should get up early in the morning and worship Vishnu. Offerings of flowers, fruits, milk and sesame seeds are to be made. Devotees perform Panchamrut Abhishek in which the coronation of Vishnu’s idol is done by a mixture made up of five elements, i.e., sugar, milk, curd, honey and clarified butter. Another main ingredient that is offered to Vishnu is holy basil, also known as Tulsi. It is very sacred to Vishnu and he easily gets pleased by the devotees who offer him the same. Tulsi leaves purify mind, body and soul and fight against evils. Touching or consuming tulsi on this day can help in removing all kind of diseases and planting and watering tulsi is equivalent to welcoming the Lord in one’s own abode. It also removes fear of death and provide protection against Yamaraja.

People sing religious songs and praise Vishnu for fighting against evil and offering happiness and contentment to them. Some also stay vigil at night and fast throughout the day without even consuming a drop of water. A person who observes the fast should have a positive attitude and perform the rituals with complete dedication. He should not lie or hurt anyone throughout the day. Also he must sleep on earth and should not have any materialistic thoughts. Meat, honey and barley should be avoided completely and even salt intake should be prohibited.

Worshippers visit temples to offer earthen lamps filled with sesame oil to Vishnu’s idols. While performing Aarti, It is a Hindu religious ritual of worship one should offer sandalwood, vermilion and incense sticks. Donation of food and clothes to Brahmin and to needy people is also considered very auspicious. One can read scriptures to enlighten one’s mind.

Benefits of Fasting on Kamika Ekadashi

Kamika Ekadashi helps in gaining freedom from one’s deadly sins and attain salvation. One might also feel close to the Lord. Favors from Yamraj are also gained and diseases and death stay at bay. People suffering from Pitru Dosha should also perform the fast. It frees oneself from materialistic clutches and blesses with a peaceful mind and a purer heart.